Laurie Kennedy, Principal Viola
Laurie Brown Kennedy has been principal violist and frequent soloist with the Portland Symphony Orchestra since 1981. She was the featured soloist with the PSO in 1997 for the More
Where did you grow up? Oakland, CA
Where do you currently live? Brookline, MA
What instrument do you play? Viola
Educational background: New England Conservatory, MM and GD; San Francisco Conservatory, BM
Personal Information (family, pets, kids, etc.): I have a lovely boyfriend who is a double bass player and a cute Siberian husky named Sitka. She loves the snow!
How did you get started in music? I started on the violin when I was seven years old in the local Suzuki program. I loved playing in youth orchestra and quartets when I was growing up. I decided in high school that I wanted to pursue music. I switched to the viola when I was in college and fell in love with the darker sound of the instrument.
What is your favorite PSO memory to date? Disco night 2010 – the vision of Robert Moody clad in an all-70′s outfit with big hair and platform shoes will be burned in my memory forever.
Describe a typical day: There is no such thing as a typical day for a musician!
What is the question you’re asked most often when you tell people you play with the PSO? What is a viola?
Non-musical hobbies: Hiking in nature, cooking and baking for friends, and playing with my dog
What is your favorite music? I love all music!
Do you teach? If so, how can people get in touch with you? Yes, email stephaniefong1000@yahoo.com
Where are your favorite eats in Portland? The Front Room
Filed under: Musicians